Abstract
Objectives
The objective of this qualitative study was to gain greater understanding of final‐year dental students’ views on and experience of their dental curricula in 4 universities from different Asia/Pacific countries, including New Zealand, Australia, and Hong Kong (China).
Methods
A qualitative study approach was used, with semistructured interviews conducted with final‐year students from each of the 4 universities.
Results
Interviews were conducted with 60 final‐year dental students, and 5 main themes were extracted from the interviews: (1) the definition of an “ideal” dental curriculum, (2) theoretical teaching, (3) transitional tools, (4) assessment, and (5) grading.
Conclusion
The findings provide insight into final‐year students’ views of dental curricula and suggestions on possible areas of reform in the dental curriculum. Further investigations are necessary to provide a curriculum that enables students to become competent, future‐ready dental practitioners.